Honda will launch a Mitsubishi Triton-based ute in ASEAN markets in 2028, marking its first entry into the region’s ute market under a new vehicle supply agreement with Mitsubishi Motors.

The Honda ute will follow the Nissan Navara in using the Triton as its basis. The latest Navara shares the Triton’s underlying platform and diesel powertrain, but features Nissan-specific styling and suspension developed and tuned by Australian engineering specialist Premcar. Honda has yet to detail how its version will differ from the Mitsubishi.

The current Australian Triton is powered by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine producing 150kW and 470Nm. It is available with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations offered depending on variant. Australian models have a maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg.

The agreement is intended to benefit both manufacturers, with Honda able to expand its lineup without developing an entirely new ute, while Mitsubishi Motors expects the arrangement to increase production volumes and improve capacity utilisation at its Thai manufacturing plant.

The ASEAN market comprises 11 Southeast Asian countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam. The region is an important market for one-tonne utes, with the Mitsubishi Triton already sold across several countries.

The collaboration follows a strategic partnership agreement signed in August 2024 between Honda, Mitsubishi Motors and Nissan. The three companies have been exploring opportunities to share vehicles and other resources to improve efficiency and respond to market demand.

The Honda-badged Triton is scheduled to go on sale in ASEAN markets in 2028. The manufacturers have not announced plans to introduce the model in Australia.

Platform-sharing FAQs

Why do brands platform-share?

To reduce development costs, speed up production and share manufacturing expenses while retaining brand-specific styling and tuning.

What other utes share platforms?

The Ford Ranger and VW Amarok share an architecture, while the Mazda BT-50 is based on the Isuzu D-MAX. The Nissan Navara shares its underpinnings with the Mitsubishi Triton.

Is platform sharing the same as rebadging?

No. Rebadging usually involves selling essentially the same vehicle under another name, while platform sharing allows brands to develop distinct models using common architecture and components.

Will the Honda Triton-based ute come to Australia?

No Australian launch has been confirmed. Honda has announced ASEAN sales from 2028 only.

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